Winter Solstice + Yule Traditions
Celebrated when the earth’s axis is furthest from the sun, the night of the solstice marks the beginning of winter and the longest night of the year. Celebrated across the ages as the return of light, the winter solstice is a time of rebirth and transformation. To learn more about this ancient practice and how to make a folk protection candle to guide your way, see below.
A Time For Transformation
Picture a wintery green forrest dusted with snow. As the sun rises, the light breaks through the trees after a long and cold night. Warmed by the fire at your feet, you take a deep breath and rejoice that the darkest nights are behind you. This is the feeling and the transformation that the solstice brings.
Celebrated in many different ways in many different traditions, the solstice is a time of celebration, of letting go of that which no longer serves you, and of a rebirth into something new. A time to set your vision to the year ahead, the crisp bright energy of yule and solistice bring hope for the year ahead.
Ancient Tradition: The Yule Log
One of my favorite traditions around the solstice/yule? The yule log! A beacon of light in the dark, the yule log is thought to protect us during the dark night, as we bring our dreams and visions into the world. This special log was then kept for protection throughout the year and used the following year to start the cycle again. A symbol of hope for what’s to come.
When we remember the ways of the past, we not only honor ourselves but those that came before us too. The traditions that are steeped in the seasons tether us to the earth and bring more of our ancient practices into modern times. Whatever way your people’s celebrated, you can explore ways that your ancestors may have celebrated this pivotal point in the year.
Make Your Own Yule Magic: Yule Candles + Intentions
Candles have long been used to illuminate our paths in the darkness of night, and this sweet and crafty spin on the yule log is one that anyone can do. Add a touch of imagination and manifestation for the new year, and you have yourself a sweet little ceremony filled with bright green energy. To craft your yule candle simply take a tapered candle (beeswax preferred) and tie a piece of conifer to the taper. Set your intentions and light your candle as the sun sets, letting it burn until it’s done. A wish for a bright green tomorrow, and a symbol of protection for the night.
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